Music lovers around the world may look for musical instruments and the accessories that come along with it. Here are some key terms associated with musical instrument dealers.

Luthier - A designer of new stringed instruments such as violins or guitars. Luthiers can design special stringed instruments for a band of musicians or repair individual instruments.

Restring - The process of fitting new or different strings to a musical instrument. This repair is common for stringed pieces. Acoustic guitars often need to be restrung and tuned.

Amplifier - Amplifies, enlarges or extends. When combined with a loudspeaker an amplifier is used to increase the sound of musical instruments. Amplifiers are a beneficial accessory for guitar players and bands during concerts. Many dealers will offer a base amplifier with purchase.

Drum Machine - Electronic machine that produces the sound of a drum. The machine contains a sequencer that is programmed to arrange and alter stored drum sounds. A machine can hold up to 500 percussion and 50 bass sounds. Dealers usually sell this accessory for the use musical studios that must produce several sounds and beats.

Musical Instrument Insurance - An insurance policy that covers the damage, theft or loss of a musical instrument. This insurance may be a necessity for valuable pieces like Stradivarius violins. Owners pay a monthly premium like with other insurances.

To find the instrument that is right for you, familiarize yourself with various key terms. This will help you understand the various types of instruments they carry at music stores.

Musical instrument dealers may specialize in a certain type of instrument or they may offer a selection of a variety of musical devices. For example, they may sell only guitars or only pianos, and it is not uncommon for some dealers to handle only electronic instruments or acoustic ones.
Traditionally, musical instruments are generally purchased directly from an instrument maker or luthier. However, the majority of musical instruments are now purchased from retail stores. These stores may sell used and new instruments and may also buy unwanted ones.
Given the large number of different types available, it is not surprising that some dealers may sell only percussion instruments. Electric instruments and amplifiers are sometimes also sold in electronic stores. Dealers may also handle instrument repairs and sell supplies, such as strings or replacement pedals. Often, they also tune pianos and other instruments. Music accessory stores may also sell books and sheet music.
Another common specialty is the drum store, although drums are also sometimes found in African art stores and New Age stores. Some dealers may supply instruments for bands or orchestras. Brass bands may purchase trumpets and trombones, while other instruments can also be bought, including woodwind flutes and saxophones. String instruments like guitars are also commonly available for purchase. The guitar and bass are both very popular string instruments. Many stores specialize in sales and repairs.
Specialty piano stores may also sell electric organs and keyboards.
Although some dealers may be knowledgeable about a variety of instruments, the majority specialize in a specific type of instrument. Instruments can also be purchased online and shipped, but most music stores have a physical location. This allows customers to try out the sound and feel of an instrument before purchase.